Emotion has swept over the Danish royal family during their first official trip to the Faroe Islands since Frederik ascended the throne. Queen Mary, wearing the traditional Faroese costume and striking black mittens, has been one of the main protagonists. However, it was her youngest daughter, Princess Josephine, who took a highly significant symbolic step by accompanying them at this historic event.
The family was welcomed this Wednesday in the capital, Tórshavn, with wintry weather, but that didn't dampen the enthusiasm of the Faroese people. Mary of Denmark proudly wore her typical costume, while her husband, King Frederik, also donned the corresponding male attire. Both have remained faithful to tradition, making clear their closeness to the autonomous region of the Danish kingdom.
Josephine, however, was the exception in terms of clothing, as she didn't wear a typical costume. This was because hers, received in 2018 when she was only seven years old, no longer fits her after adolescence. The young princess chose modern clothing, but kept the color harmony with her parents, which was seen as an elegant and respectful nod.
Queen Mary and Princess Josephine, close and complicit in a visit full of symbolism
Queen Mary completed her outfit with black mittens, an unusual but functional choice in the low temperatures. The traditional costume fabric provides warmth, but lacks gloves, which forced the queen to seek a practical solution. Thanks to these mittens, she was able to keep the style and, at the same time, protect herself from the extreme weather without losing freedom in her hands.
During the reception at Tinganes, the queen received a silver bracelet, crafted by local artisans, as a symbol of Faroese lineage. To put it on, she naturally removed her mitten, prompting smiles among those present. This gesture showed both closeness and respect toward her hosts, and reinforced her image as a close and spontaneous queen.
The gift to King Frederik was equally symbolic: a pair of cufflinks representing the cultural heritage of the islands. Both pieces were made by the Niels L. Arge house, famous for its craftsmanship and family legacy. With these gifts, an emotional and diplomatic connection was sealed between the crown and the autonomous region.
A firm guide and a new perspective: Queen Mary and Josephine share the spotlight in Faroe
Josephine's presence wasn't part of the official agenda, which sparked the curiosity of the media. It has been speculated that the reason behind her participation was a difference in the school calendar with her twin brother Vincent. Since they study at different schools, it seems she had more flexibility to travel.
Despite the informality of her participation, the princess appeared close, smiling, and enthusiastic throughout all the events. Her attitude was warmly received by the Faroese people, who felt the royal family was closer than ever. Many interpret this visit as an opportunity for Josephine to start becoming familiar with royal duties.
Ultimately, this trip was much more than an institutional visit: it represented a gesture of commitment, tradition, and openness toward the future. Mary once again showed her natural charisma, while Josephine took her first public steps with maturity. Denmark, moved, witnessed the birth of a new generation in action.